Modified UK Royal Navy Wildcat Takes Off

By Staff Writer | January 30, 2013

Attack, Completions & Modifications

The initial AW159 Wildcat for the UK Royal Navy has taken its first flight in Yeovil, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced this week. The UK MoD purchased 28 attack helicopters from AgustaWestland last year as part of a replacement program for the existing Lynx Mark 8, with entry into service scheduled to start in 2015. The MoD also inked a £250-million contract with the manufacturer for support and training of the Royal Navy and British Army’s fleet of 62 Lynx Wildcat helicopters. The contract will sustain around 500 jobs in the Somerset area, according to the MoD.Related:Airframe News